Exploring Germany: Frankfurt To Cologne Distance Revealed

Frankfurt and Cologne are two German cities that are relatively close to each other, with a distance of around 112-118 miles (181-191 kilometres) between them. The cities are easily accessible via Germany's high-speed trains and Autobahn, the country's highway system that is famous for its absence of speed limits.

Travel by train

The distance between Frankfurt and Cologne is approximately 152 kilometres (95 miles) and the fastest trains take around 1 hour and 2 minutes.

Train Stations

Frankfurt Main Hbf is located right in the city centre of Frankfurt. The main train station in Cologne is Koln Hbf, which is also located in the heart of the city.

Tickets

The cheapest tickets are around $17.00 for a single ticket. Tickets can be purchased in advance or on the day, but booking in advance is recommended as tickets are usually more expensive on the day of travel. Tickets can be purchased online or at the train station.

Timetables

On weekdays, the first train from Frankfurt to Cologne is at around 04:44 and the last train is at 23:24. This is the same at the weekend. There are around 72 trains travelling between the two cities each day, with a train departing approximately every 9 minutes.

Train Companies

The following train companies operate on the route from Frankfurt to Cologne:

• Intercity-Express (ICE)
• Hamburg-Köln-Express

Onboard Services

The ICE trains are equipped with air conditioning, a dining car, a children's compartment and power sockets. Passengers can also enjoy free WiFi throughout the journey.

Travel by bus

Traveling by bus from Frankfurt to Cologne is a convenient and affordable option, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Several reputable bus companies operate this route, including FlixBus, Eurolines, and IC Bus. Buses depart from Frankfurt's main bus station, Frankfurt am Main Hauptbahnhof, which is located in the city center and is well connected to the public transport network. The bus station is modern and offers a range of facilities, including ticket offices, waiting areas, and cafes.

When planning your bus trip, it is advisable to book your ticket in advance, especially during peak travel times and holidays. Tickets can be purchased online or directly at the bus station. Fares vary depending on the carrier and the date of travel, but generally, they are very reasonable, making bus travel an economical choice. It is worth checking the different bus company websites for promotions and discounts, as you may be able to secure an even better deal on your fare.

The journey by bus from Frankfurt to Cologne is quite comfortable, with modern coaches offering spacious seating, air conditioning, and ample legroom. Onboard services may include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and entertainment options, depending on the carrier. Most bus companies also allow you to bring a reasonable amount of luggage onboard, making this mode of transport convenient for those with suitcases or larger items. Rest stops are usually made along the way, giving passengers the opportunity to stretch their legs, use restroom facilities, and purchase refreshments.

Upon arrival in Cologne, buses typically arrive at the Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) or the Cologne Central Bus Station, known as the "ZOB Köln". The ZOB Köln is situated close to the city center and provides easy access to Cologne's main attractions. From here, you can continue your journey by transferring to a local bus or taking a short taxi ride to your final destination within the city.

Travel by car

The distance between Cologne and Frankfurt is around 118 miles by road, or 95 miles "as the crow flies". The drive between the two cities takes around 2 hours.

Route Options

There are two main route options for this journey:

Autobahn A3

This is the fastest route, taking you directly between the two cities.

Rhine River Route

This route takes around 20 minutes longer and is 126 miles long. From Frankfurt, take the A3 for 88 miles, then continue onto the B48, and take Exit 11 to merge onto the B42. After driving through Neuwied, continue on this highway as it follows the river until you pass Drachenburg Castle on your right. Stay left at the fork to continue onto the A559 and follow signs to Cologne.

Travel by plane

Flying is often the fastest way to cover long distances, and the journey between Frankfurt and Cologne is no exception. Here is a guide to help you navigate the experience of flying between these two German cities.

The flight time between Frankfurt and Cologne is approximately 45 minutes to one hour, which is significantly faster than traveling by train or car. There are several airlines that operate direct flights between Frankfurt Airport (FRA) and Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN), including Lufthansa and Eurowings. These carriers offer multiple daily departures, providing flexibility for your travel plans. It is always a good idea to check the schedules and availability in advance, as the flight times and frequencies can vary depending on the day of the week and seasonal changes.

When booking your flight, consider the overall travel time, including getting to and from the airports. While the flight itself is swift, you need to factor in the time required for airport procedures such as check-in, security checks, and baggage claim. Additionally, both Frankfurt and Cologne have efficient public transportation systems that can facilitate your journey to and from the airports. For example, Frankfurt Airport is well-connected to the city center by train, providing a quick and convenient option for travelers. Similarly, Cologne Bonn Airport is easily accessible from Cologne's central train station.

It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before your domestic flight to ensure a smooth check-in and boarding process. This is especially important if you are traveling during peak hours or busy travel seasons. Many airlines offer online check-in options, which can save you time and streamline the process. Keep in mind that some low-cost carriers might charge additional fees for checked baggage or specific seat reservations, so be sure to review the fare conditions before booking.

Travel by taxi

Travelling by taxi between Frankfurt and Cologne is a convenient and comfortable option if you're seeking a door-to-door journey. The trip offers a direct and stress-free experience, especially if you're not fond of navigating an unfamiliar public transport system or driving on German roads.

The distance between Frankfurt and Cologne is approximately 186 km (115 miles), and the journey time by car is roughly 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. When planning your taxi trip, it's essential to consider the potential for heavy traffic, especially during rush hours and on weekends, when many people travel between these two major cities.

Several options are available for booking a taxi for this journey. You can opt for a traditional taxi service, where you can call a local taxi company and book your trip in advance. Many German taxi companies offer fixed prices for longer journeys like this, so be sure to inquire about this when making your reservation. You will be provided with a comfortable sedan or van, depending on your party size, and you can expect a safe and reliable journey.

Alternatively, you can utilize ride-sharing or ride-hailing apps, which offer convenient and often cost-effective options for longer trips. These apps allow you to book your trip in advance, and you will be able to see the estimated cost and journey time before confirming your ride. The benefit of these app-based services is that you can easily track your driver's location and share your trip details with others.

When travelling by taxi, it's recommended to bring some form of in-car entertainment, especially if you're travelling with children, to make the journey more enjoyable. Additionally, having some snacks and drinks on hand can make the trip more comfortable, especially if you're travelling as a family or a group.

Frequently asked questions